Las Vegas II: Tony Schumacher Friday notes

SCHUMACHER DROPS INTO THIRD SPOT
LAS VEGAS, Nev., October 30 - U.S. Army Top Fuel driver Tony "The Sarge"
Schumacher secured the third starting position here Friday during the first day of
qualifying for the Las Vegas Nationals at The Strip at...

SCHUMACHER DROPS INTO THIRD SPOT

LAS VEGAS, Nev., October 30 - U.S. Army Top Fuel driver Tony "The Sarge"
Schumacher secured the third starting position here Friday during the first day of
qualifying for the Las Vegas Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Schumacher used a 3.839-second pass at 313.07 mph during the second session to
fall in behind Larry Dixon and Steve Torrence, respectively, in the order.

"I was pleased with our performance today," said the Top Fuel points leader. "We
had a couple of solid runs. Now, we need to refine things tomorrow to prepare for what
will be an important race day."

Schumacher arrived in Vegas holding a slim 47-point advantage over Dixon in the
standings. He's aware any slip up at this point in the Countdown to 1 could weaken his
chances for a sixth straight title.

"There are just two races left in the season so time is running out for everyone
concerned," he added. "We need to leave here having gained points on our closest
competitors. That's the simple formula for the U.S. Army team."

Schumacher is hoping he can play off of his successful past at The Strip. He's
totaled four wins to date, three of which came in the fall event.

"It's been a good track for us, but that doesn't mean very much this weekend," he
said. "We have to remain focused on the job at hand. The guys are motivated to get
another trophy for our Army Strong Soldiers."

Top Fuel qualifying sessions on Saturday are scheduled for 12:30 p.m. and 3:30
p.m. PT.